For Consumers
Resources for You
Safe Medication Use
Women play a vital role in making decisions about the medicines they use for themselves and their families. The FDA Office of Women’s Health (OWH) established the “Use Medicines Wisely” initiative to educate women about safe medication use. In 1999, OWH conducted a multi-city campaign in partnership with the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) and 80 non-profit and corporate supporters. The initiative has since expanded to include outreach activities nationwide. Here’s how you can participate.
Use Medicines Wisely. Follow these easy steps to Protect Yourself and Your Family:
- Read the Label – Read the information on the drug label or insert.
- Keep a Record – Make of list of the medicines you take including prescriptions, aspirin, vitamins, herbs, and other supplements.
- Ask Questions – Talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacists about your medicines.
- Follow the Directions – Use your medicines as your doctor tells you. Do not share your medicines with others.
- Report Problems - Tell your health provider about any side effects or other problems you may have.
Read the OWH publications listed below for more information. These materials are available in multiple languages. Click on the Free Publications link to view or download a copy.
My Medicines: A Medicine Recordkeeper
This brochure is available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Polish, and 10 Asian/Pacific Islander languages.
- My Medicines - flower version (PDF 75K)
- My Medicines - gender neutral version (PDF 308K)
- Mis Medicinas - Spanish flower version (PDF 64.2 KB)
- My Medicines - Brochures in other languages
Medication Booklets
These booklets provide information on FDA-approved products for the treatment of high blood pressure, depression, menopause, high cholesterol, birth control, HIV, and smoking cessation
Fact Sheets
These one-page fact sheets provide easy-to-read information on safe medication use.
- Use Medicines Wisely
- Antibiotic Resistance
- Buying Drugs Online
- Dietary Supplements
- Generic Drugs
- Medicines and Pregnancy
- Over-the-Counter Drugs
Posters
Contact Us
Office of Women's Health
- 301-827-0350
- 301-827-0926 (Fax)
5600 Fishers Lane, HF-8
Rockville, MD 20857

